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Kevin Rudd concedes defeat

Tony Eastley reported this story on Sunday, September 8, 2013 08:05:00

TONY EASTLEY: At times Kevin Rudd sounded more like the victor than the vanquished when he delivered his 18 minute long concession speech in Brisbane.

Here's part of what he had to say.

KEVIN RUDD: My fellow Australians, my fellow Queenslanders (sound of cheering) and fellow members of the great Australian Labor Party.

(Sound of cheering)

Today, we have fought the good fight as the great Australian Labor Party.

(Sound of cheering)

Tonight is the time to unite as the great Australian nation (sound of cheering) because whatever our politics may be, we are all first and foremost Australian.

(Sound of cheering)

And the things that unite us are more powerful than the things that divide us, which is why the world marvels at Australia, this country, which can manage its political differences peacefully and conduct the most vigorous of debates peacefully and resolve our politics peacefully and with civility. That is why this country is such a great country.

A short time ago I telephoned Tony Abbott to concede defeat at these national elections. (Sound of booing) As Prime Minister of Australia, I wish him well now in the high office of Prime Minister of this country.

I know that Labor hearts are heavy across the nation tonight and as your Prime Minister, and as your parliamentary leader of the great Australian Labor Party, I accept responsibility. I gave it my all, but it was not enough for us to win.

I'm proud that despite all the prophets of doom, that we have preserved our federal parliamentary Labor Party as a viable fighting force for the future.

(Sound of cheering)

TONY EASTLEY: The former Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd, in Brisbane.

Extra Audio

Listen to Kevin Rudd's full speech

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